Kalamazoo city commission will trim list of search firms hoping to find the city's next city manager

Kalamazoo’s search for a new city manager takes another step this evening.

The city commission is expected tonight to narrow the list of search firms that have applied to aid Kalamazoo in finding a new city manager

Kalamazoo’s current city manager, Kenneth Collard, is among dozens of city employees taking an early retirement package.

11 search firms applied to the city to conduct the search for Collard’s replacement.

Kalamazoo Mayor Bobby Hopewell says there is a long list of qualifications the commission would like the next city manager to have.

“It almost looks like we’re looking for someone that will walk on water. But we know that person’s not out there,’ says Hopewell, “But we are going to look for the best possible person out there that understands the nature that we’re going through. And is willing to step up and be part of the opportunities and the journey ahead. “

Hopewell wants to see candidates for the city manager's job who can bring creative solutions to Kalamazoo’s problems.

Like other Michigan cities, Kalamazoo has been struggling to deal with declining tax revenues and has been forced to make deep cuts to the city’s workforce.